MARQUETTE, MI (WLUC) – Marquette’s first fashion show hits the runway this Saturday.

This event was created to give UP designers and students a chance to showcase their skills. Marquette, director of his fashion show, Pearl-Anne-Rose McConnell, said his main goal is to give young people who want to break into the fashion industry the experience they need.

“I like to bring people together and learn things that can be learned anywhere in the world,” says McConnell. “After this, go to New York Fashion Week. Go to LA Fashion Week, who knows everything. I want to take that experience to another place and see people happy.”

McConnell expects the show to sell out with over 200 guests and 40 vendors. Among the featured designers is McConnell’s friend Vera Gould.

“I am so honored that she contacted me for this experience,” said Gould. “We are friends who paint together. She gave me the opportunity to participate in her show, to express and promote my art.”

In addition to supporting artists and designers, the show also benefits local nonprofits. Sisu Dark Horse is dedicated to helping marginalized children succeed in martial arts such as Muay Thai and wrestling. President Jovan Mercado said sport teaches life skills.

“If you lose in wrestling, it’s because of what you did and the effort you put into it,” Mercado said. “There’s accountability in that, because if you don’t show up, your teammates aren’t getting better. But in the end, it’s up to you. Just like in life, if you get fired from your job, there’s no excuse.” Well, it’s your fault.”

Next up is the Marquette Fashion Show, which will feature spring and summer shows. They are also working on a fashion magazine that may be published soon.

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